LA homeowners warned of inspection scam

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Los Angeles homeowners are being warned of a bogus letter concerning a fire department inspection.

The Los Angeles Police Department says the letter is fraudulent and homeowners should call 911 if anyone comes to their door presenting themselves as an Los Angeles Fire Department employee asking to perform an inspection.

The LAPD was first notified of the scam Wednesday, when a Pacoima resident received a letter stating that their home was slated to be inspected for hazardous materials, mold, exit ways, and fire alarm systems by the LAFD.

The letter appears to have a city letterhead, which wrongly identifies the mayor as James K. Hahn, and is signed by the former Fire Chief William Bamattre.

These types of scams often target the elderly and the community's most vulnerable citizens to get into homes to commit burglaries and other crimes.

The LAPD is investigating the matter. Anyone with information about this scam is asked to contact Foothill Area Burglary Detectives at (818) 834-3115. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477).

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